Cool Columbia Things To Do

It’s Summer in Columbia and this Summer is ESPECIALLY HOT here in the Heart of South Carolina.  Our city does offer many COOL things to do to beat the heat.  Here’s Lady Street Builders’ list of cool things to do in Columbia. For those super hot days out of the year where you may be more comfortable with an indoor itinerary, we’re here to help with some COOL ideas.

Enjoy Columbia’s Museums

Art enthusiasts can craft the perfect day exploring Columbia Museum of Art and browsing local galleries, finished off with a screening of an indie film at The Nick.  

Families love the fun and fabulous time they can have at EdVenture Children’s Museum.  The largest children’s museum in the Southeast offers hands-on exhibits. interactive experiences, engaging lessons and more! The South Carolina State Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of South Carolina. It has four floors of permanent and changing exhibits, a digital dome planetarium, 4D interactive theater, and an observatory.

Play Indoor Sports 

Those with a competitive streak will enjoy bowling at The Grand, old school arcade fun at Bang Back Pinball Lounge, and golf simulators at The Players Club.

You could try something different and try a live escape game and your own private adventure at Escapology.  They offer immersive escape rooms and team building workshops to have fun and practice team problem solving, communication, and critical thinking as you race against the clock to complete your mission.

Go Shopping

If shopping till you drop is more your speed, Columbia offers a variety of shopping districts with local boutiques like Brittons on Devine (Brackish bowties, yes, please!) and popular chains like Lululemon and Anthropologie where you can spend your day indoors while searching for your next favorite find. 

The Divine District’s tree-lined streets are dotted with dozens of chic shops. Tap into your quintessential Southern side by browsing Lilly Pulitzer collections, monogrammed towels and kitschy bow ties and timeless children’s clothing. Or prep for your next adventure by stocking up on outdoor gear, swimwear and a new bike or skateboard. 

Just down the hill, historic Five Points beckons. Though it’s within walking distance of UofSC and popular with students, the funky village district offers something for everyone. You’ll find local art, contemporary clothing, barber shops, home goods, and quirky décor. 

The Vista has long been home to art galleries, upscale restaurants, and antiques stores. Today the destination has even more to offer. You’ll find national retailers alongside local shops original to the district offering art, jewelry, antiques and home furnishings. The area is also host to the South Carolina State Museum and EdVenture (attractions with their own fun gift shops) and the Columbia SC Visitors Center, with Columbia SC swag and local finds.

Nearby Main Street is bustling 24/7 with students, professionals and activity from the nearby State House. There are clothing boutiques for men and women, a classic general store, gift shops, jewelers and more. On Saturdays, Soda City takes over several blocks near the Columbia Museum of Art with open air vendors selling unique items and local favorites.